The N.C. Department of Transportation is taking the first steps in planning for what would could be the state’s most expensive project ever: The reconstruction of Interstate 77 in south Charlotte.

That project – which will probably occur next decade – will require the complete rebuilding of the highway, bridges and interchanges. In addition, the state would have to spend tens of millions of dollars to buy real estate along each side of the highway.

“You are looking at … $1 billion easy,” said Louis Mitchell, N.C. DOT division engineer .

Mitchell said an expanded I-77 may include at least one toll lane each to help pay for construction costs. He said the state will soon consult with the Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization to determine how and when the project should move forward.